Improving Your Air Conditionerhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/index.xml
Recent content on Improving Your Air ConditionerHugo -- gohugo.ioenMon, 11 May 2020 12:13:41 +0000Comparing Air Conditioning Systemshttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/05/11/comparing-air-conditioning-systems/
Mon, 11 May 2020 12:13:41 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/05/11/comparing-air-conditioning-systems/<p>If you don't have air conditioning in your home, you likely spend much of your time just trying to figure out ways of staying cooler in your house on hot days. If you've finally decided that getting an air conditioner is something that you're ready to do, then you'll need to decide which type is going to be the one for you. The best options for full-home air conditioning are central cooling or a mini-split system. You can use the information here to help you decide which one is going to be the one you want to go with.</p>
<p>Installation of your new air conditioning system</p>
<p>If you decide to go with a central air conditioning system, then the installation is going to go much faster if your home already has ducts. If there aren't ducts already in the home, then the installation is going to be harder because the technician is going to need to install them in order to complete the installation process, and this will take more time. &nbsp;</p>
<p>A mini-split system is considered to be very easy to install. The installation process requires the wall units to be hung and connected to a compressor that remains outside and is connected by refrigerant lines that will be run through the walls.</p>
<p>Visibility of the systems</p>
<p>If you are a person who likes to keep certain things hidden from view, such as your appliances, then you will find central cooling appealing. With central cooling, the registers can be near the ceilings and can be painted the same color as the walls if you want. The thermostat can be installed in an area that can't be easily spotted from the living area, such as in a hallway, and the compressor will be outside in a protective housing unit. With a mini-split system, you'll likely need several wall units, and you may need to decorate around them in some cases.</p>
<p>Cooling the home</p>
<p>Many people really like central cooling because all they have to do is set one thermostat to the temperature that they want the inside of the home to be and the entire home will be cooled to that temperature. However, many other people like the fact that the mini-split system allows them to set different parts of the home to different temperatures, and this is good for homes where household members have different temperature preferences.</p>
<p>Now that you have more information on central cooling and mini-split cooling systems, you can decide which one is right for you.</p>
<p>To learn more, contact an <a href="https://leehvac.com/pages/pensacola-ac-repair" target="_blank">AC installation</a> professional.</p>
How To Unclog An AC Condensate Drain Linehttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/04/01/how-to-unclog-an-ac-condensate-drain-line/
Wed, 01 Apr 2020 17:25:47 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/04/01/how-to-unclog-an-ac-condensate-drain-line/<p>In central heating and air systems, the evaporator coils are installed above the furnace blower. These coils are responsible for cooling the air that is blown over them when you turn on your air conditioner. Because the coils get so cold, moisture in the air around them will condense onto the coils.</p>
<p>The condensate drain pan is found directly below the evaporator coils. The pan collects condensation that drips off and routes it through a drain line out of your home. Sometimes, the drain line can get clogged and stop draining properly. Here's what you should do if your condensate drain line is clogged.</p>
<p><strong>Signs of a Clogged Drain Line</strong></p>
<p>The main symptom of a clogged condensate drain line is water pooling on the floor around your furnace. When the drain is clogged, water will build up in the drain pan until it spills over the edges and runs down the sides of your furnace.</p>
<p>If you see mold inside your drain pan, it's possible that there's a partial clog in the drain that hasn't gotten bad enough to block water completely yet. If the drain is slow, water can sit in the pan long enough to allow mold to grow. Take action if you see mold in your drain pan as a complete clog could be just around the corner.</p>
<p><strong>How to Unclog the Drain Line</strong></p>
<p>To clear your condensate drain line, you will need to look in two places: the vent tee where the line connects to the drain pan and the spout outside near your condenser where the line exits your home. Starting with the outside spout, push a wire brush into the line and manually clear as much muck as possible. Next, attach a wet/dry vac hose to the spout and let it run for a minute or two.</p>
<p>After you work on the outside spout, go indoors and turn off power to your furnace. Open the furnace access panel and look for the drain pan directly below the coils. If the pan is full, vacuum it out with the wet/dry vac. Open the top cap on the vent tee, clean the tee with the wire brush, and then vacuum from that side. Finish by pouring a 50/50 mixture of water and bleach into the tee.</p>
<p>With these easy steps, you can get your condensate drain flowing smoothly again and prevent costly water damage around your HVAC system.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To learn more about your AC evaporator coils, contact a <a href="https://www.comfortsolutionsutah.com/residential-ac" target="_blank">residential AC service</a> in your area.</p>
2 Furnace Noises Requiring Your Immediate Attentionhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/03/04/2-furnace-noises-requiring-your-immediate-attention/
Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:41:02 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/03/04/2-furnace-noises-requiring-your-immediate-attention/<p>Usually, when your home's furnace is running, you may barely even be aware of its existence except for the low hum from the blower or the gentle whooshing of air coming out of your vents. However, if you start hearing other noises, they could indicate either a minor or major problem. Below are a couple of noises that require your immediate attention if you start to hear them.</p>
<p><strong>1.&nbsp; High-Pitched Squealing That Is Either Heard Intermittently or Constantly</strong></p>
<p>One noise you may hear coming from your furnace is hard to miss. Whether or not you hear a high-pitched squealing sound intermittently or constantly, the irritating noise should be investigated as soon as possible.</p>
<p>There are a couple of possible causes of a squealing sound, and both have to do with the blower. One potential issue could be a loose fan belt that is slipping on the pulleys that join the fan and the motor. If the belt is not tightened or replaced, it will eventually either stretch to the point that it no longer grips the pulleys or it will break.</p>
<p>Another problem indicated by a squealing noise is that the bearings inside the blower motor have become worn or too dry. In either case, friction will build up within the motor, which could eventually cause it to burn out.</p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp; Rapid Clicking Noises Heard Whenever the Blower Is Running</strong></p>
<p>Another furnace noise that should be investigated sooner rather than later is a clicking that is heard whenever the blower is running. This sound resembles that which is caused by a thin object that gets caught in the spokes of a bicycle wheel while you are riding it.</p>
<p>Usually, this sound means that something has become caught within the fan blades. Not only is the noise rather annoying, but the object creates resistance against which the fan must push through.</p>
<p>Eventually, this increased resistance will cause a strain on the blower's motor because it has to work harder. This scenario could cause the motor to burn out prematurely, making it necessary to replace it.</p>
<p>While the above noises may only require a simple fix, they could also indicate a serious issue that could cause your furnace to break down completely, which is something that you do not want to happen when temperatures are frigid. Contact an HVAC contractor who offers <a href="https://www.advancedheatingandcooling.com/furnace" target="_blank">furnace repair</a> services to have them inspect the heating unit to find the problem and take the necessary action.</p>
Problems That Can Occur With Your Furnace In Cold Weatherhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/01/24/problems-that-can-occur-with-your-furnace-in-cold-weather/
Fri, 24 Jan 2020 22:24:21 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2020/01/24/problems-that-can-occur-with-your-furnace-in-cold-weather/<p>When the cold weather hits, your heating system gets put into use on a daily basis. There are a number of common problems that occur with your furnace when it has to work hard each day to heat your home. Even when you get your furnace serviced before the heating season begins, there are still issues that can come up that result in heating repair needs. Cold weather makes your furnace work hard. If the weather gets bitter cold, your system may not be able to keep up with your heating needs. If your system isn't getting your home warm enough, or continually turns on and off, it's time to call for <a href="https://www.dependableheat-cool.com/heating-and-furnace-repair" target="_blank">heating repair</a> services to figure out what is going on.</p>
<p>Your Heat Is Blowing Cold Air</p>
<p>The first thing to check when your heat is blowing cold air is the thermostat. Make sure your system is turned to heat and not fan or cool. If the thermostat is set correctly, you might have cold air blowing because your air ducts aren't insulated and keeping the air warm as it goes to your vents. Clogged filters can cause your system to blow cold air, and you can try to replace the filter to see if that helps.</p>
<p>Room Temperatures Are Uneven in the Home</p>
<p>When your heating system is on, you might discover that you have rooms that are freezing and others that are too hot. Make sure that air flows between your rooms, and use ceiling fans when possible. You could have a draft coming in, and there might not be any problem with your furnace. Insulate your windows if there is a draft coming in and look for ways to increase air flow from room to room.</p>
<p>Short Cycling and Your Furnace</p>
<p>If your system turns on and off consistently without warming up your home, your furnace is short cycling. This can occur if your air filter is too clogged, or when airflow is blocked for another reason. Your thermostat might be set incorrectly, or that your heating needs are too large for the furnace you have.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Furnace problems can result in a complete failure of your heating system. Always make sure the thermostat is set correctly, and pay attention that there is adequate air flow throughout your home. Minimize drafts from windows, and look for ways to keep the warm air in your home. Call for help when you can't figure out what is going on with your furnace and your home is getting cold.</p>
Furnace Maintenance Tips To Help You Avoid Costly Repairshttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/12/18/furnace-maintenance-tips-to-help-you-avoid-costly-repairs/
Wed, 18 Dec 2019 04:59:12 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/12/18/furnace-maintenance-tips-to-help-you-avoid-costly-repairs/<p>Winter is just around the corner, and you no doubt want to keep your house or building comfortable for your family or employees. Having a properly functioning furnace can go a long way towards helping you succeed in that goal. But there isn't a furnace out there that doesn't require regular maintenance and upkeep if you want it to keep doing its job in the months ahead. Here are some furnace maintenance tips designed to help you avoid a costly furnace repair.</p>
<p><strong>The Sooner You Address It, The Better Off You'll Be</strong></p>
<p>Some home and business owners are content with their furnace being in "good enough" working condition. But "good enough" can quickly turn into an issue if you let developing issues continue to linger. The earlier in the winter you address a potential problem, the less likely it will be that something blows up in your face. Schedule an appointment with a <a href="https://lakesideheating.com/furnaces/" target="_blank">furnace repair</a> service for a maintenance checkup early in the winter. Even if the repair service doesn't find anything that needs fixed right away, they can help fine tune the device and give you peace of mind that everything should be all right during the cold months to come.</p>
<p><strong>Remove Dust and Debris</strong></p>
<p>Even if you are not a furnace expert, there are at least a couple tasks you can handle yourself on a regular basis. The first is to try and keep your furnace free of dust or debris. Exposure to any of this gunk will make your furnace run less efficiently and may eventually develop into a larger issue that costs you money. Open up your furnace when it is turned off, and use a brush to gently nudge out dust that might be coating the furnace's interior. Then, use a hand-held vacuum to suck away all of the dust and debris. The cleaner you can keep your furnace, the better off you'll be.</p>
<p><strong>Change the Filter</strong></p>
<p>The occasional dusting can help keep your furnace running, but so can changing the filter. This is another task that is relatively simple and can be handled by just about anyone. Change your filter at least once every couple of months, or once per month with heavy use. A clean filter is another way to ensure maximum operating efficiency, and this could save you money on your HVAC bill in addition to keeping repairs at bay.</p>
<p>Get an annual inspection early in the winter, and be diligent about keeping the filter clean with new filters and a regular dusting. More complicated issues should be handled by a professional</p>
3 Reasons To Install A New Furnace In A Home You're Planning On Sellinghttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/11/25/3-reasons-to-install-a-new-furnace-in-a-home-youre-planning-on-selling/
Mon, 25 Nov 2019 13:49:19 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/11/25/3-reasons-to-install-a-new-furnace-in-a-home-youre-planning-on-selling/<p>If you are thinking about selling your home at some point in the future, you might not really think it is worth it to install a new furnace. After all, you might not really think that you will be able to make the most of the investment. However, it is sometimes a good idea to install a new furnace in a home that you are planning on selling. It may just be a good idea for these three reasons, along with others.</p>
<p><strong>1. Enjoy the Benefits for Now</strong></p>
<p>For one thing, if it is going to be a while before you put your home up for sale, you might find that it's worth it to purchase a new furnace so that you and your family can make use of it. It could take a while for you to sell your home, and having a new furnace in the home will allow you to keep you and your family nice and cozy until someone makes an offer. You can also save on heating bills in the meantime with the help of a new furnace, which can be a good thing when you are dealing with the expenses of selling your home and buying another one.</p>
<p><strong>2. Sell Your Home for a Higher Price</strong></p>
<p>Getting the maximum amount that you can for your house is probably your goal when you put it on the market. Doing things now that will help improve your home's value can help you achieve that goal. In addition to doing things like painting the walls, you can try installing a new furnace. You might see that this will really help you out when it's time to have your home appraised.</p>
<p><strong>3. Sell Your Home More Quickly</strong></p>
<p>Not only will you potentially get more for your home if you get a <a href="https://bryantlincoln.com/heating/furnace-repair/" target="_blank">furnace installation</a> in it before putting it up for sale, but you might also sell it a lot more quickly. Many homebuyers don't like the idea of buying a home that needs work done. Instead, a lot of buyers like the idea of buying a home that they can move into right away.</p>
<p>If you install a new furnace in the house before you put it up for sale, then you can make the home more appealing to buyers who don't want to deal with a fixer-upper. If you choose an energy-efficient furnace and a smart thermostat, you might find that your home is that much more appealing to those who are looking for a home to buy.</p>
3 Innovative Ways To Stay Warm And Cozy During A Heating Outagehttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/10/24/3-innovative-ways-to-stay-warm-and-cozy-during-a-heating-outage/
Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:28:28 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/10/24/3-innovative-ways-to-stay-warm-and-cozy-during-a-heating-outage/<p>In the middle of the coldest winter night, your furnace shuts down unexpectedly and you are stuck indoors due to the snow. Place a call to a <a href="https://www.imsheatingandair.com/heating-fort-collins" target="_blank">heating repair service</a> for help, and use these three innovative ideas to stay warm.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>1. Pop up a tent inside the house.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>It may sound like an odd recommendation, but if you've ever camped in chilly weather, you will know how quickly a tent can get warm and cozy. Due to the small interior of a tent and your own body heat, the interior of a small tent will get warm pretty fast. If you're out of heat until the repair professional can get to you, set up your tent in the family room or even build a blanket fort. You may be surprised how warm you will stay.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>2. Heat up a sock filled with dry rice and get cozy.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Fill a sock with dry rice, pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, and then snuggle up with your rice sock inside a blanket. Years ago, it wasn't common for people in the cold to heat up water, put it in a rubber pouch, and hunker down in their blankets for the evening. Rice socks are a similar idea, but there is no water involved and you do not have to have a rubber water pouch on hand. You can also achieve the same thing with dry lentils.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>3. Make some hot cocoa.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Remember how satisfying that hot cup of cocoa was after playing in the snow? Drinking warm liquids like coffee, tea, or cocoa may actually help <a href="https://blog.nols.edu/2016/01/11/do-hot-drinks-really-warm-you-up" rel="nofollow">increase your body temperature</a> by just a tiny bit, but just consuming something warm, holding the cup in your hands, and feeling the steam on your face can be enough to make you feel warmer if your house is cold. If your heat goes out and you can't leave the house, pull out the hot cocoa and get everyone a cup. It could make quite a difference in how comfortable everyone feels.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It can be scary to be caught in the dreary winter, with snow on the ground and no heat available because your furnace went out. Don't be afraid to think outside of the norm. Pop up a tent in the living room, heat some socks of rice in the microwave, and gather everyone in the tent for a cup of hot cocoa. You'll be cozy and warm until the heating repair service arrives.&nbsp;</p>
Pick The Right Air Conditioner For Your Home Installationhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/09/17/pick-the-right-air-conditioner-for-your-home-installation/
Tue, 17 Sep 2019 10:37:10 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/09/17/pick-the-right-air-conditioner-for-your-home-installation/<p>When you're ready to stop sweating in your home, it's time to call an <a href="http://www.arcelechvac.com/ac-system-installation" target="_blank">AC installation service</a>. They can hook up the air conditioner of your choice and fit it neatly into the appropriate place in your home. Your AC technician can take care of the physical labor, but they can't choose an air conditioner for you. Here are three AC facts that will help you make a smart selection:</p>
<p><strong>1. Bigger is not necessarily better. </strong></p>
<p>When selecting an air conditioner, you naturally want one that will do a good job of cooling your house. You may be tempted to choose the biggest AC unit you can find in order to accomplish this. However, an AC unit that's too big for your house can lead to greater costs down the line. Larger air conditioners draw more power, which may be unnecessary to cool your space. If the air conditioner has a built-in thermostat, it will turn off when it reaches the target temperature but it will likely turn off more quickly since it's overpowered for the amount of square footage available. Turning off and on many times throughout the day is bad for air conditioners and can strain their parts. You will likely end up paying more for repair costs in a few years with an oversize air conditioner.</p>
<p><strong>2. Smaller air conditioners may be inefficient.</strong></p>
<p>An air conditioner that's too small can also pose a problem. A small air conditioner with too few BTUs will have difficulties bringing your home down to the correct temperature. This means that your air conditioner will run all day without reaching the temperature on your thermostat. Constantly running your air conditioner instead of using it in long cycles will cause your electric bill to rise quickly. You may save money buying a small AC unit, but you will quickly lose that money paying for exorbitant utility bills. Purchase an air conditioner with the correct number of BTUs for the square footage of your house or room.</p>
<p><strong>3. Energy Star ratings are important.</strong></p>
<p>The Energy Star is a seal of approval that certain products get when they achieve an acceptable level of efficient energy usage as defined by the&nbsp;U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy. Purchasing energy efficient AC units is important for a number of reasons. First, it's better for the environment. However, it's also better for your pocketbook. Efficient air conditioners will greatly reduce your home's overall energy consumption, since heating and cooling appliances tend to draw a lot of power. Shop smart by looking for the Energy Star on any prospective AC units.</p>
Dealing With Lukewarm Water? A Look At 3 Potential Culpritshttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/08/13/dealing-with-lukewarm-water-a-look-at-3-potential-culprits/
Tue, 13 Aug 2019 15:36:46 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/08/13/dealing-with-lukewarm-water-a-look-at-3-potential-culprits/<p>Your hot water heater has just one job — providing a steady supply of hot water for your entire home. When the water inside your hot water heater suddenly turns lukewarm, you'll want answers. Here are three common issues that could cause your water heater to stop producing hot water.</p>
<p><strong>Faulty Thermostat</strong></p>
<p>Just as your HVAC system uses its thermostat to regulate temperatures throughout your home, your water heater's thermostat helps maintain its supply of hot water at safe but usable temperatures. A properly set thermostat will keep hot water temperatures between 120 and 125 degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to kill unwanted bacteria and viruses but cool enough to avoid scalding users. Some water heaters feature a dual-thermostat setup where each heating element is controlled by its own thermostat.</p>
<p>Water heater thermostats fail for a variety of reasons, with the most common reasons being old age and defect. A faulty thermostat can make the water inside your water heater tank too uncomfortably cool to take a shower, wash dishes, and clean clothes.</p>
<p><strong>Failed Heating Element </strong></p>
<p>If you have an electric water heater, then it'll come equipped with a pair of heating elements positioned near the top and bottom of the water heater tank. If one heating element fails, the other will struggle to heat the entire tank and, if left to its own devices, potentially burn out as well. Having just one element burn out will drastically reduce the amount of hot water your water heater produces.</p>
<p>Gas-powered water heaters rely on burners instead of heating elements. Faulty ignition or poor gas flow caused by dirty burners and line blockages can prevent the burner from working properly. Rust and corrosion on the burner's surface can also interfere with its proper operation, resulting in tepid water temperatures.</p>
<p><strong>Broken Dip Tube</strong></p>
<p>Another problem that could lead to cold showers is a broken dip tube. The dip tube is a long pipe that funnels water from the cold inlet to the bottom of the water heater tank. Over time, the dip tube can turn brittle and form cracks along the surface, allowing cold water to seep near the top of the tank. In many cases, the dip tube can break apart completely.</p>
<p>A broken dip tube not only disrupts the way your water heater produces and delivers hot water, but remnants of the tube can also damage the glass liner inside the water heater tank as well as the heater element. Fortunately, broken dip tubes are easy to replace; although, fishing out the broken remnants is a task best left to a skilled professional.</p>
<p>If your water heater is having any of these problems, contact a <a href="http://acehomeaz.com/phoenix/plumbing/water-heaters/" target="_blank">water heater repair</a> professional to fix it for you.&nbsp;</p>
Signs That It's Time To Upgrade Your Home's Electrical Systemhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/07/05/signs-that-its-time-to-upgrade-your-homes-electrical-system/
Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:44:01 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/07/05/signs-that-its-time-to-upgrade-your-homes-electrical-system/<p>If the lights in your home turn on when you hit the switch and your appliances turn on as instructed at the flip of a switch, you may not be aware that your electrical system in your home is not exactly in good working order. Sure, everything works, but you may not be getting enough power or your breaker box may be so full that there isn't any room for anything else. If you aren't sure what signs to look for with your electrical system, read on for a few signs to watch out for.</p>
<p><strong>Lights Dim Often</strong></p>
<p>If your lights dim when your air conditioner turns on or when you turn on an appliance in your home, it's a sign that your system needs to be upgraded. If you're pulling too much power, your system is going to have a hard time keeping up. An upgraded breaker box may be necessary. This is especially true if you have an older home. Older homes weren't built to have so much connected to the breaker box. If you have too much on one fuse, you may notice issues when something turns on in your home, such as the dishwasher, swimming pool, or air conditioner.</p>
<p>If you are blowing or popping fuses often, it's time for an upgrade. You most likely have too much loaded onto one fuse and it either needs to be upgraded or split up. If you aren't familiar with electrical systems, it's best to leave this work to the professionals. If a fuse is blown every time you plug something into an outlet, use a different outlet in the meantime to prevent the need to reset the fuse over and over again.</p>
<p><strong>Your Home Is Over 20 Years Old</strong></p>
<p>If your home is over 20 years old and has never had the breaker box replaced, you may have an older system that only has 60–100 amp service. The fuses are most likely older and have burned out, possibly multiple times. If this is the case, have a new breaker box installed so you can carry 200 amp service. This can also add to the value of your home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These are just a few of the signs that your system needs to be upgraded. Hire a professional electrician to look over your electrical system in your home and to do the upgrade work for you. Electrical work should only ever be completed by a professional that has the know-how and tools to get the job done right.</p>
<p>For more information, contact an <a href="https://www.centralmt.com/electrical" target="_blank">electrician</a>.</p>
Helpful Tips For First-Time Home Buyershttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/05/27/helpful-tips-for-first-time-home-buyers/
Mon, 27 May 2019 22:14:11 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/05/27/helpful-tips-for-first-time-home-buyers/<p>Many people purchase homes without considering the maintenance that is involved to keep them in good shape, including care for all of the appliances. First-time homeowners sometimes make the mistake of investing in property that appears to be in top shape, but actually has problems that don't become visible until after living in the house for a while. If you are a few steps away from buying your first house, there are several things that you must keep in mind before and after the closing process takes place. The reason why is because you can end up having to spend large amounts of money on repairs if the wrong decisions are made. Take a look at the content below if you have an interest in knowing more about common home repairs and maintenance that is needed.</p>
<p><strong>Check for Water Damage in Advance</strong></p>
<p>Before buying a house, a wise thing to do is to thoroughly inspect for water damage. You don't want to end up living in a house that has hidden mold in it due to water damage, as it can possibly cause everyone in the household to become ill. Another problem that water damage can cause is for the roof to become unstable, which means that it will have the risk of caving in. You can easily pinpoint water damage by looking for discolored drywall, which can be in shades of yellow, brown, and even darker when the water has caused a substantial amount of mold to develop. Bubbles in the ceiling can point to water damage as well, which is common with a leaking roof.</p>
<p><strong>Central Air Conditioners Require Maintenance</strong></p>
<p>If you buy a house that has a central <a href="https://www.service1heating.com/air-conditioner-furnace-hvac-contractor-joliet/ac/" target="_blank">air conditioning</a> system installed in it, be prepared to perform maintenance on occasion. You might notice that the air conditioner isn't very cold if the house was sitting on the market for a long time before you purchased it. In such a case, you might need to get the air ducts cleaned out due to dust accumulating in them for a long time. Keep in mind that evaporator coil might need maintenance or to be replaced as well, as it is one of the most important parts in combination with the system coolant for having access to cold air. You can get the air conditioning system inspected a few times per year to prevent unnecessary problems and keep it functional.</p>
What Determines The Location Of Your AC Compressorhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/04/23/what-determines-the-location-of-your-ac-compressor/
Tue, 23 Apr 2019 12:29:40 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/04/23/what-determines-the-location-of-your-ac-compressor/<p>If you are going to be having central air conditioning installed at your home, you may be wondering where the compressor unit will be installed outside your home. While the unit can go almost anywhere, some thought does go into where it should go for an optimal location. The following factors will be considered as part of the decision.</p>
<p><strong>Your Local Laws</strong></p>
<p>The first thing an HVAC contractor is going to do is determine what local laws could affect the placement of the condenser. The most common problem you'll run into is if there is a law regarding how close to a neighbor's home you can have the compressor installed, or how far away it must be from a window that opens. These laws could eliminate some potential spots right away, even if they are more ideal for other reasons. If you don't follow the laws, you'll end up having to pay to move the compressor to another location.</p>
<p><strong>Your Furnace's Location</strong></p>
<p>Your central air conditioning will work with your furnace to provide cold air to your home. This is done by circulating refrigerant that extracts the heat from the air and then forcing that cold air through your vents. It doesn't make sense to create a long line for the refrigerant to flow through if it isn't necessary. If possible, your HVAC contractor is going to install the compressor in a spot that is very close to the furnace. This proximity will require less refrigerant line, which means there is less of a chance of it having a leak later on. It can also speed up the installation since the refrigerant line is going to be shorter and require less pipe.</p>
<p><strong>Your Surface Conditions</strong></p>
<p>The air conditioner needs a place that is level and elevated off the ground to keep the water away from the unit. Even though it is meant to operate in the rain, being submerged in water won't be good for the unit. If you have a flat roof, your HVAC contractor may recommend installing the compressor up there so it is out of the way from ground level flooding. They may also recommend installing a slab of concrete to create the ideal position for the compressor.</p>
<p>Think you know of a great place where the compressor could go? Let your HVAC contractor know when they come to give you an estimate. They will definitely take your personal preferences into consideration and let you know if the spot you have in mind will work out. For more information, contact a local HVAC installation company like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.comfortmedics.com/services/" target="_blank">Comfort Medics</a>.&nbsp;</p>
4 Reasons You Should Have Your HVAC Ducts Cleanedhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/03/13/4-reasons-you-should-have-your-hvac-ducts-cleaned/
Wed, 13 Mar 2019 10:01:48 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/03/13/4-reasons-you-should-have-your-hvac-ducts-cleaned/<p>Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your HVAC system in good working order. However, you may not know that duct cleaning is an integral part of HVAC maintenance. It can be a lot of work, so don't feel like you need to do it yourself. There are <a href="http://onehourheatandairmi.com/duct-cleaning/" target="_blank">duct cleaning</a> services that will be happy to assist you. Here are four reasons you should have your ducts cleaned:</p>
<p><strong>1. Prevent mold growth</strong></p>
<p>Mold has an offensive odor and depending on the type of mold that begins to grow, it can even cause health problems for the people living in your house. Mold thrives in dark, damp conditions, which means your vents are the perfect incubator, especially if you live in a humid climate. Frequent duct cleaning can remove any mold that is beginning to grow, and it can clean out spores before they bloom.</p>
<p><strong>2. Boost your energy efficiency</strong></p>
<p>Selecting the right furnace is the first step in making your HVAC system energy-efficient. However, you also need to keep the parts of your HVAC system free from contaminants. When your ducts are dirty, the motor in your HVAC system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home. This can lead to increased utility costs, which can really add up over the course of the year. Save money by investing in duct cleaning when you need it.</p>
<p><strong>3. Prevent fires</strong></p>
<p>When your air filters and ducts become clogged with too much debris, they can become a fire hazard. This is especially true if you've had home renovations taking place, which release a lot of sawdust into the air. Have your ducts cleaned so you can sleep easier at night knowing that your family is protected from unexpected blazes.</p>
<p><strong>4. Breathe easier</strong></p>
<p>When your ducts are filled with dust and debris, those things eventually find their way into your home and in the air you breathe. This can lead to allergies, and it can cause all sorts of problems for people who struggle with asthma. Have your ducts cleaned at least once a year. You may want to have it done more frequently if you live in a dry area with lots of pollution.</p>
<p>These are just a few of the ways every homeowner can benefit from duct cleaning services. If you haven't had your ducts cleaned this year, you should call your local HVAC service and ask for a price estimate.</p>
When and How to Get Your HVAC Cleanedhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/01/28/when-and-how-to-get-your-hvac-cleaned/
Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:53:43 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2019/01/28/when-and-how-to-get-your-hvac-cleaned/<p>Cleaning your HVAC system is important for health reasons and to ensure the proper functioning of the system. A dirty HVAC system can spread dust, mold, and other airborne particles throughout your house. If dirt ends up on certain parts of your HVAC system, it can reduce the performance of these parts. This may cause the system to operate inefficiently, resulting in faster degradation.</p>
<p>What is the best time to clean your HVAC system and how can you ensure your system is properly cleaned?</p>
<p><strong>After Long Periods of Disuse</strong></p>
<p>When your HVAC system has not been used for a while, like when you go on a long holiday, dust is likely to have settled in different parts of the system. You should always check your system after extended periods of disuse. If you find there is a buildup of dust and dirt, you should have it cleaned by a professional.</p>
<p><strong>When the Air Smells Dusty or Musty</strong></p>
<p>The air from your HVAC system is supposed to smell clean and fresh. If your air smells like it has a lot of dust or if people start sneezing whenever the HVAC is turned on, there's a good chance there's dust in the air ducts or the air inlet.</p>
<p>A musty smell is indicative of mold or some other fungal growth. This can cause serious respiratory problems for those in your home. Apart from cleaning the HVAC, the source of the moisture will also need to be identified and fixed.</p>
<p><strong>When the HVAC Seems to Be Working Harder Than Usual</strong></p>
<p>When your HVAC system seems louder than usual when you turn it on, it could mean that it's having to work harder to suck in air from outside. This is a very common issue when the air filters are clogged. Clogged air filters should be cleaned or replaced immediately because they can cause a lot of wear on other parts of the system.</p>
<p><strong>Get Your HVAC Cleaned</strong></p>
<p>There are two ways to get your HVAC clean: you can do the job by yourself or you can have it done by a professional. Cleaning air ducts and certain parts of the outdoor unit is something you can and should do regularly. A simple vacuuming may be all you need. You may also need to remove leaves and other debris clogging the outdoor unit. However, cleaning other parts on the inside of your HVAC should be left to an <a href="https://calldenverhvac.com/" target="_blank">HVAC services</a> provider.</p>
Four Parts Of Your Furnace That Can Become Damagedhttp://westshoresystemstech.com/2018/12/15/four-parts-of-your-furnace-that-can-become-damaged/
Sat, 15 Dec 2018 18:22:40 +0000http://westshoresystemstech.com/2018/12/15/four-parts-of-your-furnace-that-can-become-damaged/<p>Furnace problems can be a bit of a mystery if you do not know what the different parts are. Here are four furnace components that can potentially stop working and prevent you from getting heat.</p>
<p><strong>Damaged Control Board</strong></p>
<p>A control board is not common in very old furnaces, but you'll find them in any modern furnace that you can buy today. You can tell if you have a damaged control board if the furnace demonstrating odd behavior, like turning on the air conditioner while the furnace is running. You may see burn marks on the control board if it has gone bad, but sometimes the problem can be hard to diagnose if you are not a professional HVAC technician.</p>
<p><strong>Damaged Gas Valve</strong></p>
<p>If the gas valve of the furnace is getting power, but it isn't opening, then a solenoid located on the gas valve has gone bad. You can tell this is happening if the furnace starts up normally and then shuts off suddenly. This is because the furnace isn't getting gas, and the gas valve needs to be replaced with a new one.</p>
<p><strong>Damaged Heat Exchanger</strong></p>
<p>Your furnace has a primary and secondary heat exchanger if it is a high efficiency model or just a single heat exchanger that is not. This part is a crucial component of the furnace that separates combustion gases from the air going into your home. While this part is meant to last just as long as your furnace does, it can fail prematurely for multiple reasons. A dirty furnace filter can cause overheating, which will shorten the part's lifespan.</p>
<p>An HVAC technician will test this part by seeing how much combustion gases leave your home through your chimney. They'll be able to tell if the gas levels are normal or if there is a problem. Unfortunately, a cracked heat exchanger can be enough to justify replacement of the entire furnace, since you can no longer guarantee that the dangerous gases the furnace produces will not get back into your home.</p>
<p><strong>Damaged Ignition Module</strong></p>
<p>The ignition module is essentially a control board that just controls the ignition, and it helps control the flame sensor, the gas valve, and spark igniter. A damaged ignition module can cause problems with these parts not getting the power they need, which causes them to not work. This is another part that needs to be tested by an HVAC profession to verify if the part has gone bad.</p>
<p>If you believe that you have a furnace problem, reach out to <a href="http://www.aandaservice.net/air-conditioning-residential" target="_blank">furnace repair</a> service.</p>